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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Works - 1999-08-16PWTC\1999-08-16 PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 CITY OF KITCHENER The Public Works and Transportation Committee met this date, chaired by Councillor John Smola, commencing at 8:40 a.m., with the following members present: Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors J. Haalboom, K. Taylor-Harrison, C. Weylie, B. Vrbanovic and J. Ziegler. Others present: Councillor T. Galloway, Councillor M. Yantzi, Ms. S. Roberts, Ms. J. Billet, and Messrs. E. Kovacs, S. Gyorffy, D. Snow, J. McBride, T. Clancy, R. Schirm, J. Cicuttin, K. Currier, J. Witmer and J. Shivas. 1. HANSON AVENUE SNOW DUMP The Committee considered a report dated July 20, 1999, from Mr. S. Gyorffy, Assistant General Manager, recommending that free use of the City's Hanson Avenue Snow Dump site by private contractors clearing snow from private property be discontinued and that a controlled access gate be installed at the entrance to the Hanson Avenue Snow Dump so as to allow only City vehicles and those working under contract to the City to use this site. Mr. S. Gyorffy advised that, during the 1998-99 winter season, heavy snow falls created operational problems resulting from overloading of the Hanson Avenue Snow Dump site. He advised that previously the City had multiple snow dump sites that could be used alternately during heavy snow falls; however, the City has now been reduced through sale of property to only one location at Hanson Avenue. He pointed out that the City of Waterloo does not allow private contractors to use their snow dump and, accordingly, in addition to private contractors from Kitchener, snow is being hauled from outside the municipality into the City's snow dump. Mr. Gyorffy advised that staff are of the opinion that continuing to allow private contractors use of the City's facility will require development of an additional site at considerable cost; however, he stated that, if use is restricted, the City will experience substantial operational savings. Mayor C. Zehr referred to the proposed gate at the entrance of the snow dump and how access by City staff would be handled. Mr. Gyorffy responded that it was intended to install an automated controlled access gate and staff or contractors working with the City would be provided with some form of key card similar to that used in the City's parking garage. He stated that it was preferred to use an automated access gate to avoid having to deal with potentially confrontational situations with private contractors. Mayor C. Zehr stated that he was in agreement with staff's recommendation provided that a private supplier would be available; however, he suggested that a significant effort must be made to notify all private contractors of this change in policy and the reasons for it. Councillor B. Vrbanovic agreed that notification to private contractors must be undertaken but also suggested that notification be expedient as such contractors may already be in the process or have signed contracts with their clients on the basis of free use of the City's site. He suggested that notification take place immediately following this meeting so that if contractors of this nature have concerns these could be brought forward to Council at its meeting to be held on August 30, 1999. In addition, Councillor B. Vrbanovic inquired as to the location of the proposed private sector snow dump sites as he was concerned problems may arise with trucks traveling along residential streets to reach these sites. Mr. Gyorffy responded, at this time, a location on the fringe of the western boundary of the City is being considered. He further advised that the Ministry of Environment already has guidelines in place and a copy of these guidelines could be forwarded to any potential private supplier to use as a guide for operation of their site. Councillor B. Vrbanovic stated that it is not necessarily the supplier that will create the problem but rather the truckers and suggested that the surrounding residential area be taken into consideration for any potential private sector location. Councillor J. Ziegler stated that he was in agreement with staff's recommendation to restrict access to the City's facility, also noting that notification to the private sector was essential. In this regard, he suggested using local community newspapers/newsletters in addition to publication in The Record. He further requested that notification include small operators clearing snow from private property utilizing a pickup truck. PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 59 - CITY OF KITCHENER HANSON AVENUE SNOW DUMP - (CONT'D) Councillor C. Weylie inquired if the City owned the Hanson Avenue site and how it was zoned. Mr. S. Gyorffy responded that he believed the area to be industrial and the site had been bought in conjunction with the local School Board. He advised that the School Board intends to develop a highschool on Block Line Road and that plans for this area had included the snow dump. In addition, he commented that the only residential area close by the snow dump on Hanson Avenue is located on the opposite side of Homer Watson Boulevard. Councillor C. Weylie inquired if private sector sites required a certain type of zoning. Mr. S. Gyorffy responded that he was not certain if a particular type of zoning would be required; however, he advised that the potential sites are currently gravel pits which are believed to be zoned agricultural. Mr. Gyorffy agreed he would investigate this matter further. Councillor C. Weylie inquired if there was an existing agreement with the City of Waterloo to pay for the use of the Hanson Avenue site. Mr. Gyorffy responded that there was no agreement; however, he pointed out that the City of Waterloo has its own snow dump and does not allow private sector use of their site. As a result, private contractors operating in the City of Waterloo are currently hauling their loads to the Hanson Avenue snow dump. Mayor C. Zehr requested that the recommendation outlined in the report be amended to include that notice be given immediately and prior to the August 30, 1999, Council meeting to all private sector contractors through a combination of publication in the local newspaper and local community newsletters/newspapers. On motion by Mayor C. Zehr- it was a resolved: "That private truckers be advised that, effective the 1999-2000 winter season, the City of Kitchener will no longer provide snow disposal services; and, That a controlled access gate be provided at the Hanson Avenue snow dump, allowing only City vehicles or those working under contract to the City to use the site in future; and, That funding of $20,000.00 be allocated from the 1999 snow removal operating budget for the installation of the controlled access gate; and, That the owners of potential snow disposal sites in the City of Kitchener (gravel pits) be advised of this change; and further, That notice to private truckers and owners of potential snow disposal sites be given immediately and prior to the August 30, 1999, Council meeting, through a combination of local media/community publications and informational packages." DOPWR 99-28 - SCHOOL PEDESTRIAN SAFETY MODIFICATIONS FOR THE 1999-2000 SCHOOL YEAR The Committee considered a report dated August 10, 1999 from Mr. R. Schirm, Supervisor of Crossing Guards, outlining modifications proposed for the 1999-2000 School Year School Pedestrian Safety Program which include establishing adult crossing guards at two intersections on Victoria Street South and a school bus loading zone on Birchcliff Drive, together with an action plan as outlined below: Action Plan The installation of Adult Crossing Facilities on Victoria Street South at Oprington Drive and Victoria Street South at Eastforest Trail to accommodate the opening of St. Dominic Sabio Separate School. PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 60 - CITY OF KITCHENER 2. DOPWR 99-28 - SCHOOL PEDESTRIAN SAFETY MODIFICATIONS FOR THE 1999-2000 SCHOOL YEAR (CONT'D) The installation of a School Bus Loading Zone on Birchcliff Avenue to accommodate 8 full size school buses at St. Paul Separate School. 3. The relocation of four school buses that serve J.F. Carmichael Public School to Marlborough Avenue. The relocation of the Adult Crossing Guard facility at Chapel Street and Lancaster Road to the west leg. Elimination of noon hour service at the Siebert Avenue and Vanier Drive Adult Crossing Guard Facility. 6. Installation of a student safety patrol assisted School Crossing on Carson Drive at Champlain Crescent. 7. Distribution of the School Route Maps to all school aged children. Mayor C. Zehr advised that he had been contacted by Mrs. H. Mikloska of 224 Carson Drive, who was present at this meeting, with respect to the proposed location of a school crossing at the intersection of Carson Drive and Champlain Crescent. He stated that the location of this crossing is in direct line with Mrs. Mikloska's driveway and she has indicated concerns with respect to access to her driveway and the potential for hazardous situations involving children using this crossing. He advised that Mrs. Mikloska also feels that the proposed location will not accomplish what is intended as children will look for the shortest route and most likely will cross over to Champlain Crescent at an earlier point. In addition, Mayor Zehr advised that Mrs. Mikloska has pointed out that the condition of the road is in need of repair. Mr. R. Schirm advised that the safety of children crossing Carson Drive to attend school has been a long standing issue and numerous public meetings with representatives of the school, parents and area residents have been undertaken. As a result of undertaking studies, staff are recommending that a safety patrol facility be established on the northern leg of the intersection at Carson Drive and Champlain Crescent. He noted that this location provides the best visibility for both children and motorists. He stated that Mrs. Mikloska had been advised of the proposed location by letter dated June 1, 1999, in which it had been pointed out that similar school crossings facing private driveways have been established throughout the municipality and operated without incident. The letter had also advised that safety patrols are required to stand clear and to keep children back to allow access to and from such driveways. Mayor C. Zehr also pointed out that Mrs. Mikloska had raised the question of snow removal. In this regard, Mayor Zehr pointed out that the City's snow removal policy requires sidewalks to be cleared within 24 hours but does not make reference to driveways. Mayor Zehr inquired if it was staff's policy to clear snow from the driveway when a school crossing is directly across from it. Mr. Schirm responded that it was not a policy of staff to clear driveways; however, in this case staff could make an exception. Mayor C. Zehr inquired of Mrs. Mikloska if all of her concerns had been addressed and she responded she believed they had. She stated that her main concern was with the safety of children whom she believed would take the shortest route, resulting in children crossing over Champlain Crescent twice rather than proceeding down Carson Drive to the proposed school crossing location. Mr. D. Snow stated that the choice of location of this school crossing was to specifically encourage children to make their crossing only at this intersection and that he believed the presence of the designated safety patrol would further encourage the use of this crossing. Councillor J. Ziegler suggested that the City should take into consideration the homeowner's right of private enjoyment of her property and recognize her contribution to the community in agreeing to the proposed school crossing by providing her liability coverage under the City's PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 61 - CITY OF KITCHENER 2. DOPWR 99-28 - SCHOOL PEDESTRIAN SAFETY MODIFICATIONS FOR THE 1999-2000 SCHOOL YEAR (CONT'D) insurance. As an example, he noted that when roads are closed for public events, the event organizers are required to provide insurance and he believes the City should do likewise when school crossings affect private driveways. Mr. D. Snow responded that in the instance of road closings it is actually a requirement of the Region that insurance be provided; however, he believed that the City's insurance would cover this school crossing situation. Councillor K. Taylor-Harrison stated that she agreed with the proposed location, as it is really the only place that provides proper visibility. In addition, she stated that she was impressed with the level of concern for the safety of children raised by the parents and the support of the school. She stated that she agreed that children have a tendency to look for the shortest route; however, she believed that if children are properly educated as to the reasons why using this crossing is best, children will use it. Mayor C. Zehr requested that staff provide further information at the Council meeting August 30, 1999, with respect to the issue of liability insurance coverage. He further noted that this particular issue is not dealt with in the report as a recommendation to Council. In this regard, Mr. Schirm responded that only the items in the report that have a financial impact on the budget or require a by-law amendment were addressed through a recommendation to the Committee. He stated that the issue of the school crossing at the intersection of Carson Drive and Champlain Crescent was part of the proposed action plan and did not require a recommendation to Council as it does not require funding. Councillor John Smola clarified that the school crossing in question is listed as Item No. 6 under the proposed action plan and does not require action by this Committee to implement as no financial assistance is required. Councillor C. Weylie referred to the two new schools proposed to be built on Victoria Street and inquired why School Boards are not required to install and pay for traffic signals as is the case for developers when new subdivisions are proposed. Mr. Snow responded that developers are only required to install and pay for traffic signals if traffic warrants indicate the need for signals to be installed. He advised that at the locations on Victoria Street, traffic warrants show no evidence of the need for traffic signals to be installed. He advised that the standard to warrant traffic signalization is a constant 8 hours of high volume traffic. He acknowledged that Victoria Street, in the location of the two schools, will experience peek times of high volume traffic; however, it will not meet the 8 hour standard. In this regard, Councillor C. Weylie suggested that staff should look at schools differently when considering the need for traffic signalization. On motion by Councillor J. Haalboom - it was resolved: "That an Adult Crossing Guard facility be established at the intersection of Victoria Street South and Oprington Drive, effective September 7, 1999; and, That an Adult Crossing Guard facility be established at the intersection of Victoria Street South and Eastforest Trail/VVestforest Trail, effective September 7, 1999; and further, That the 1999 operating budget be adjusted to reflect an over-expenditure of $5,300.00." - and - "That a school bus loading zone be established on the south side of Birchcliff Drive from a point 106 metres west of Uplands Drive to a point 104 metres west thereof; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 3. POLICY - PROVISION OF MUNICIPAL WATER PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 62 - CITY OF KITCHENER The Committee considered a report dated August 11, 1999, from Mr. E. Kovacs, General Manager, outlining past practices respecting the provision of municipal water to areas in the City not yet serviced and requesting that this practice be continued. Mr. E. Kovacs advised that this report had been prepared in response to concerns raised at the April 26, 1999 Public Works and Transportation Committee meeting with respect to private water wells affected by new development. He advised that staff had approached this matter from the viewpoint of what was best overall for the municipality. He pointed out that present practice requires that all property owners pay for the original installation of infrastructure and, thereafter, the municipality undertakes maintenance and replacement of the infrastructure as required. He further pointed out that there are a number of options to initiate and fund an original infrastructure installation which would include applications under the Local Improvement Act; inclusion in the City's budget as a capital project; or, through the subdivision development process which would require the developer to provide and fund the service. Mr. E. Kovacs stated that it would cost an estimated $10 million dollars for the City to undertake infilling of service to those affected. As a result, staff are requesting the existing policy be continued and infilling be addressed on a case by case basis. Councillor C. Weylie referred to a residence on Highland Road owned by elderly persons whose private well had been affected by new development and now require services through the City's infrastructure. She suggested that it was not possible for these seniors to collect signatures on a petition as required by the local improvement process and questioned how this situation could be dealt with. Mr. Kovacs responded that the municipality could initiate the project through the capital budget or the City could undertake the local improvement process on behalf of the owner. In each instance, he advised that the property owner would be required to pay for the original installation of the infrastructure. Councillor C. Weylie inquired if there was a formula for calculating the cost of connections and Mr. Kovacs responded that under the local improvement process it was calculated on a per foot of frontage and if it was undertaken as a capital project staff would estimate the cost based on a similar calculation as that for local improvements. Councillor C. Weylie also referred to the subdivision agreement for Bridgeport North which did not include provision to require the developer to monitor any sites containing private wells which abut the new subdivision and to be responsible for providing well rehabilitation or alternate water supply should the adjacent subdivision prove to have been the cause of well deterioration. In this regard, Councillor C. Weylie inquired if this provision is actually in all subdivision agreements. Mr. Kovacs responded that he believed the intent was to have some subdivision agreements contain this provision if the City was aware of a situation where a private property containing a well abutted a new development. Under those circumstances he advised the City would then negotiate with the developer and a cost sharing arrangement would apply. Mr. K. Currier further advised that, through the public meeting process, property owners are able to make the City aware of such situations that would then lead to inclusion of this provision in subdivision agreements. Councillor C. Weylie requested that staff contact the residents at the property on Highland Road prior to the Council meeting of August 30, 1999, and outline the various options available to them. Mr. Kovacs agreed that this would be done. Councillor J. Haalboom referred to a situation in the Village of Upper Doon where property owners' wells had been affected by development and had found themselves in a situation where it was necessary to hook into the City's service. She pointed out that the cost to do so is approximately $4,400.00 and questioned if it was possible for property owners to obtain the service of a private contractor at lower cost. Mr. Kovacs advised that private contractors would still be required to meet all standards and he did not believe there would be a significant difference in cost. 3. POLICY PROVISION OF MUNICIPAL WATER (CONT'D) On motion by Councillor K. Taylor-Harrison - PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 63 - CITY OF KITCHENER it was resolved: "That property owners continue to be required to fund original water system costs; and further, That the funding mechanism be determined on a case by case basis." BRIDGE REHABILITATION The Committee considered a report dated August 11, 1999, from Mr. S. Gyorffy, Assistant General Manager, requesting that a policy be established with respect to rehabilitation of existing bridges that would allow rehabilitation to be based on original construction standards rather than full compliance with the current Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code. Mr. S. Gyorffy advised that, as the result of repairs to several existing bridges, the issue of the level of standard to be used during rehabilitation was raised by the consultant on the project. He stated that the bridges in question had been in place for a number of years and there have been no problems with them. Accordingly, staff are of the opinion that rehabilitation should be done to the original construction standards rather than meeting current standards at substantially higher costs. Mr. Gyorffy advised that the current Code allows the owner of the structure to determine which standards are to be used and, in this regard, staff feel that a policy should be established. Councillor John Smola advised that the location of the bridges in question were not included in the report at the request of the Legal Department as they are the subject of a matter to be discussed later this date in Caucus. Mayor C. Zehr questioned if the issue related to safety concerns or the aesthetics of the bridges. Mr. Gyorffy responded that safety was not an issue and further advised that, if current standards are required to be met, rehabilitation would involve replacement of major portions of the bridges with much heavier structures which would result in changes to the aesthetics of the bridges. Mayor C. Zehr stated that he was in agreement with the policy, as presented by staff, as it allows the City to retain the historical nature of the structures and is cost effective. Councillor J. Haalboom stated that she was also in agreement with the proposed policy as she believed many of the existing bridges have already been over-constructed and have stood the test of time. On motion by Councillor J. Haalboom - it was resolved: "That, due to budgetary constraints, rehabilitation of existing bridges, when rehabilitated, be based on the provision of traffic barriers that meet the bridge construction standards in place at the time of original construction rather than rehabilitating to full compliance with the current Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code." VERONICA DRIVE/RIVER ROAD SUBDIVISIONS DESIGN & CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION FOR THE SEWAGE PUMPING STATION AND FORECEMAIN The Committee considered a report dated July 22, 1999, from Mr. D. Mansell, Manager of Engineering Development, requesting that the City's normal procedure for selection of consultants be waived and Stantec Consulting Limited be retained as the engineering consultant for the Veronica Drive/River Road sanitary sewage pumping station and forcemain. Mr. E. Kovacs advised that a request has been received by William J. Gies Construction Limited to retain Stantec Consulting Limited as the engineering consultant to undertake the design and 5. VERONICA DRIVE/RIVER ROAD SUBDIVISIONS DESIGN & CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION FOR THE SEWAGE PUMPING STATION AND FORCEMAIN (CONT'D) contract administration for the above noted project. He further advised that Stantec Consulting Limited was hired by the City to complete the environmental assessment for this project and, as such, have extensive background knowledge of the project. PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 64 - CITY OF KITCHENER On motion by Mayor C. Zehr- it was resolved: "That Council waive its normal procedure for the selection of consultants and retain Stantec Consulting Limited as the engineering consultant to undertake the design and contract administration for the Veronica Drive/River Road Sanitary Sewage Pumping Station and Forcemain." 6. DOPWR 99-9 - BUSPLUS SERVICE The Committee considered a report dated August 4, 1999, from Mr. J. Cicuttin, Manager of Transportation Planning, requesting that Hendry Coach Lines Inc. be awarded the contract for provision of BusPLUS service. Mr. D. Snow advised that the BusPLUS service has operated in the Laurentian West and Highland West neighbourhoods since 1998 and, due to increased demand, staff are requesting expansion of this service. Councillor T. Galloway entered the meeting at this time. Mr. D. Snow pointed out that the taxi sedans currently used to provide this service do not meet capacity needs and it is now proposed to use a larger capacity van service. He stated that growth in this area would eventually require full transit service to be provided; however, in the interim it is felt necessary to expand the BusPLUS service. Mayor C. Zehr referred to cost comparisons provided in the report between taxi cabs and the van service provider recommended and questioned if these were retained by request or through full tender. Mr. J. Cicuttin responded that existing service providers had been targeted and requested to provide costing, which included existing taxi cab companies, Hendry Coach Lines and Airways Transit. He pointed out, however, that Airways Transit declined to bid. Mayor C. Zehr questioned why the taxi cabs had not provided specific rates and Mr. Cicuttin responded that their rates were subject to a Regional tariff, which is to be increased in September. Mayor C. Zehr inquired if the tariff prevented the taxi cabs from offering a lower rate and Mr. Cicuttin responded that the taxi cab companies had indicated they were bound by the Regional tariff. Councillor John Smola referred to the rate structure for Project Lift and inquired how this is implemented. Mr. Cicuttin responded that he was not certain but that it may have been through a by-law amendment. Councillor B. Vrbanovic commented that it would seem appropriate to request staff to provide more information prior to a decision being made and stated that he was prepared to move a motion to defer this matter to the Council meeting of August 30, 1999. Mayor C. Zehr stated that he was in agreement to defer this matter and asked that staff obtain clarification from the Region as to the ability of taxi cabs to offer a lower package rate. He stated that this is not a new service but rather a shifting from one supplier to another and this may make a difference to the Region. Councillor B. Vrbanovic re-iterated the need for more information and suggested that additional quotations should also be obtained. Councillor John Smola inquired of staff if this could be done within the 2-week deferral period and staff indicated that it could. 6. DOPWR 99-9 - BUSPLUS SERVICE (CONT'D) On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic- it was resolved: "That the following recommendation contained in staff report DOPWR 99-9 be deferred and referred to the August 30, 1999 Council meeting for consideration: PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 65 - CITY OF KITCHENER 'That the contract for providing BusPLUS service be awarded to Hendry Coach Lines Inc. from September 7, 1999 until September 1,2000, subject to the terms and conditions specified by the City of Kitchener.'" 7. DOPWR 99-10 - KITCHENER TRANSIT MEDIA NETWORK The Committee considered a report dated August 4, 1999, from Ms. S. Roberts, Supervisor of Marketing and Administration, requesting that an agreement be entered into with Images framebyframe Inc. for the provision of an on-board media viewing network to Kitchener Transit for installation on transit buses. Mr. D. Snow advised that this media network has been installed on five transit buses for a trial period that has been ongoing for the past 10 weeks and that representatives of Images framebyframe Inc. were in attendance this date to answer any questions. As part of the trial, Mr. Snow advised that staff had conducted surveys involving both customers and bus drivers and the results were very supportive. He stated that the primary issue of concern had been the level of volume either being too high or too Iow. He advised that some technical difficulties had been experienced with the volume of the units; however, these were eliminated by removing the speakers directly behind the bus drivers and installing an automated volume control that adjusts according to the noise level of the bus engine. Mr. Snow stated that this was an exciting program and represented a good opportunity for positive promotion of the City's Transit System and staff were in support of continuation of this program. On motion by Mayor C. Zehr- it was resolved: "That Council accept the proposal presented by Images framebyframe Inc. to provide Kitchener Transit with an on-board media viewing network for a 5 year term at a total cost of $680,000.00; and, That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute an agreement with Images framebyframe Inc., satisfactory to the City Solicitor, for the installation for their propriety equipment and to provide the new Transit media network on all transit buses at no cost or responsibility to the City/Kitchener Transit, effective September 1, 1999 to August 31, 2004; and further, That this agreement be automatically transferable to the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, effective January 1,2000." 8. DOPWR 99-21 - ON STREET PARKING - KINGSWOOD DRIVE The Committee considered a report dated August 3, 1999, from Mr. J. McBride, Manager of Traffic and Parking, requesting that parking be prohibited on the north side of Kingswood Drive from the intersection of Block Line Road to a point 215 metres west thereof at anytime. Mr. J. McBride advised that this parking prohibition is being recommended to address resident concerns and to eliminate difficult manoeuvring conditions experienced by Kitchener Transit. 8. DOPWR 99-21 - ON STREET PARKING - KINGSWOOD DRIVE (CONT'D) On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler- it was resolved: "That parking be prohibited on the north side of Kingswood Drive from the intersection of Block Line Road to a point 215 metres west thereof anytime; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 66 - CITY OF KITCHENER 9. DOPWR 99-22 - TRAFFIC CONTROL - GOODRICH DRIVE AND HIDDEN VALLEY ROAD 10. 11. The Committee considered a report dated August 3, 1999, from Mr. J. McBride, Manager of Traffic and Parking, requesting that a stop control be installed on the west leg of Hidden Valley Road at Goodrich Drive. This intersection is a T-intersection with no formal traffic control and, according to the rules of the road under the Highway Traffic Act, motorists on the left must yield the right-of-way to the vehicle entering the intersection on the right. The lack of formal traffic control has created confusion for motorists and has the potential to create conflicts. Accordingly, staff are recommending that a stop control be installed at this intersection. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler- it was resolved: "That a stop control be installed on the west leg of Hidden Valley Road at Goodrich Drive; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." DOPWR 99-23 - ON STREET PARKING - BRECKENRIDGE DRIVE The Committee considered a report dated August 3, 1999, from Mr. J. McBride, Manager of Traffic and Parking, requesting that parking be prohibited on the south side of Breckenridge Drive from a point of 102 metres east of the intersection of Gibson Drive to a point 33 metres east thereof and from a point 185 metres east of the intersection of Gibson Drive to a point 40 metres east thereof. The parking prohibitions are being recommended to eliminate unsafe conditions respecting visibility of pedestrians and access to and from the driveways of 67 and 35 Breckenridge Drive. On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic- it was resolved: "That parking be prohibited on the south side of Breckenridge Drive from a point 102 metres east of the intersection of Gibson Drive to a point 33 metres east thereof; and, That parking be prohibited on the south side of Breckenridge Drive from a point 185 metres east of the intersection of Gibson Drive to a point 40 metres east thereof; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." DOPWR 99-24 - NOISE BY-LAW EXEMPTION - BINGEMAN STREET RECONSTRUCTION - LANCASTER STREET TO SAMUEL STREET The Committee considered a report dated August 11, 1999, from Mr. J. McBride, Manager of Traffic and Parking, requesting that the City and its contractors be exempt from the provisions of Chapter 450 of the City's Municipal Code respecting noise, during the reconstruction of Bingeman Street between Lancaster Street and Samuel Street. The exemption is requested to allow completion of the project in a timely manner so as to minimize the impact on residents in the area affected by the construction. 11. DOPWR 99-24 - NOISE BY-LAW EXEMPTION - BINGEMAN STREET RECONSTRUCTION - LANCASTER STREET TO SAMUEL STREET (CONT'D) On motion by Councillor K. Taylor-Harrison - it was resolved: "That the City of Kitchener and its contractor(s) be exempt from the provisions of Chapter 450 (Noise) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code, Article 6 (Construction Work), during the reconstruction of Bingeman Street between Lancaster Street and Samuel Street and all related work between the hours of 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. during the period from August 16, 1999 to October 31, 1999." PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 67 - CITY OF KITCHENER 12. DOPWR 99-25 - NOISE BY-LAW EXEMPTION - KING STREET EAST ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS - DEER RIDGE DRIVE TO SPORTSWORLD DRIVE 13. The Committee considered a report dated August 11, 1999, from Mr. J. McBride, Manager of Traffic and Parking, requesting that the Region of Waterloo and its contractors be exempt from the provisions of Chapter 450 of the City's Municipal Code respecting noise, during the roadway improvements to King Street East between Deer Ridge Drive and Sportsworld Drive. Councillor J. Haalboom referred to a phrase in the recommendation, which states "a limited number of occurrences during overnight and weekend hours", and inquired how many such occurrences might take place during the period of construction. Mr. J. McBride responded that the Region has indicated that approximately 10 occasions of overnight and weekend hours of operation will take place during this construction period. He advised that the Region is making an effort to co-ordinate the work during periods of time when businesses are closed so as not to affect the daily operations of these businesses. Councillor J. Haalboom requested that the recommendation include notification to area residents in the Pine Grove neighbourhood and Mr. McBride agreed. On motion by Councillor J. Haalboom - it was resolved: "That the Region of Waterloo and its contractor(s) be exempt from the provisions of Chapter 450 (Noise) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code, Article 6 (Construction Work), during the roadway improvements of King Street East between Deer Ridge Drive and Sportsworld Drive and all related work between the hours of 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, in addition to a limited number of occurrences during overnight and weekend hours, for the period from August 16, 1999 to September 30, 1999; and further, That notification of this noise exemption be circulated to area residents of the Pine Grove neighbourhood." DOPWR 99-27 - ON-STREET PARKING - FAIRWAY CRESCENT The Committee considered a report dated August 4, 1999, from Mr. J. McBride, Manager of Traffic and Parking, requesting that parking be prohibited anytime on the west side of Fairway Crescent from Fairway Road to Lackner Boulevard. The prohibition is being recommended to eliminate impediment to free flow of two-way traffic; provide safe access to and from driveways; and, improve access to emergency vehicles and school buses. On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic- it was resolved: "That parking be prohibited anytime on the west side of Fairway Crescent from Fairway Road to Lackner Boulevard; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 14. DOPWR 99-29 - AUTHORIZED REQUESTOR AGREEMENT - MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION The Committee considered a report dated August 10, 1999, from Mr. J. McBride, Manager of Traffic and Parking, requesting that an agreement be entered into with the Ministry of Transportation to access required information with respect to parking infraction contraventions and to release funds that have been collected on behalf of the Ministry, having been held pending a suitable cost sharing arrangement. Mr. J. McBride advised that Council approved entering into an agreement with the Ministry of Transportation to access vehicle ownership information to process unpaid parking infraction notices in 1998. Under the terms of this agreement, the City was required to collect a surcharge of $9.00 on behalf of the Ministry to offset the cost of maintaining the vehicle ownership databases and supplying this information to municipalities. Mr. McBride advised that the Ministry PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 68 - CITY OF KITCHENER offered the City reimbursement of $0.25 for each $9.00 collected to cover the City's cost for additional administrative functions required to be undertaken as part of the agreement. He stated that this cost sharing arrangement was not acceptable to staff as it did not cover actual costs incurred by the City and, accordingly, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario was asked to negotiate a more suitable cost sharing arrangement on behalf of all municipalities. Mr J. McBride advised that the Ministry is now offering $0.75 for each $9.00 collected which staff believe is more equitable and, accordingly, are recommending that a formal agreement now be entered into and all funds that have collected to date be released to the Ministry. On motion by Councillor C. Weylie - it was resolved: "That Council enter into an agreement with the Ministry of Transportation to access residential address information for the purpose of commencing a legal proceeding against a registered license plate holder who has committed a parking infraction in contravention of a municipal parking by-law, subject to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor; and further, That funds that have been collected by the municipality on behalf of the Ministry of Transportation, in trust, since July 1, 1998, now be released as per the terms of the agreement." 15. DOPWR 99-30 -ELECTROHOME ACCESS DESIGN The Committee considered a report dated August 11, 1999, from Mr. J. McBride, Manager of Traffic and Parking, requesting that the Ministry of Transportation be requested to postpone installation of a centre median on Wellington Street, opposite of Circa Drive, until such time as an alternate access to Electrohome can be developed for southbound traffic from Wellington Street. Mr. J. McBride advised that staff had recently become aware that the Ministry of Transportation intends to install a median on Wellington Street at Circa Drive by the end of August, which will prevent vehicles southbound on Wellington Street from accessing the main parking lot to the Electrohome business. Mr. McBride advised that the development of an office complex is proposed on a portion of the Electrohome site adjacent to the expressway and, while the office development could proceed in the near future, the Ministry has indicated that changes to the access ramps to the expressway in this area, are approximately 5 to 10 years away. He stated that current access to the Electrohome site has been in place for approximately 30 years with no operational problems and, accordingly, it is unclear as to why the Ministry is proceeding with installation of the median at this time. In order to attempt to resolve this issue, Mr. McBride advised that a meeting has been scheduled with the Ministry, Electrohome, their consultants, and the Region and City staff for Wednesday, August 18, 1999. He advised that the purpose of bringing this issue forward at this time was to make Council aware of the situation so that it will be in a position to support Electrohome in petitioning the Ministry to maintain southbound access to their site should negotiations be unsuccessful. 15. DOPWR 99-30 -ELECTROHOME ACCESS DESIGN (CONT'D) Mayor C. Zehr stated that he had been contacted by Mr. J. Pollack of Electrohome and that it did not make sense for the Ministry to proceed to install the median at this time. He stated that Wellington Street is a four lane road with no current traffic congestion and, accordingly, did not feel the median was necessary at this time. Councillor M. Yantzi entered the meeting at this time. Mayor C. Zehr requested that staff advise members of Council as to the outcome following the meeting with Ministry, as some members of Council will be in the Toronto area attending the AMO Conference, and may be able to meet with the Ministry if further negotiation is required. Mr. McBride responded that he would send notification by e-mail to all members of Council as soon as the meeting was concluded. On motion by Mayor C. Zehr- PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 16, 1999 - 69 - CITY OF KITCHENER 16. it was resolved: "That, subject to the outcome of the August 18, 1999 meeting with the Ministry of Transportation, Council request the Ministry of Transportation to postpone the installation of a centre median on Wellington Street opposite of Circa Drive until such time as an alternate access to Electrohome can be developed for southbound traffic from Wellington Street." COUNCIL REPRESENTATION - REGIONAL TRANSIT COMMITTEE DEALING WITH 17. 18. TRANSFER OF RESPONSIBILITIES Councillor John Smola advised that this item has been removed from the agenda. INFORMATION ITEMS The Committee was in receipt of the following information reports, namely: · Victoria Street Sanitary and Storm Sewer Outlets- Victoria Street Closure · Construction Projects Status Update ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 9:50 a.m. Janet Billett, AMCT Committee Administrator